An AC power line disturbance caused by sudden changes in the load. Electrical noise is problematic to solid state devices because they cannot differentiate between an intended electrical pulse and an unintended electrical spike.

A photonic device that converts electrical signals into light signals. The transmitter sends a pulse of light through an optical fiber to the receiver, where it is converted back into an electrical signal.

A technology that transmits light rather than electricity through a fiber made of thin, flexible glass or plastic. Fiber optic cables are replacing older copper cables for most telecommunications applications.

A solid state component that uses a light-emitting diode to transmit light through an optically transparent barrier between two isolated circuits. This barrier insulates circuits by allowing light to pass through, but not current.

A solid state component that uses a light-emitting diode to transmit light through an optically transparent barrier between two isolated circuits. This barrier insulates circuits by allowing light to pass through, but not current.

The act or process of creating a physical connection betweeen two separate pieces of optical fiber. Optical fibers should only be spliced by a technician who possesses the required skills and interconnection technology.